Psalm 2:1 (ESV) – Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain?
I remember what I was doing when the commercial airlines crashed into the World Trade Centers. I realized then that my life, and the lives of many, had changed.
In the course of human history, it seems that war is all but a constant. When I was an Army chaplain, I had six combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. I was directly involved in scores of Memorial Ceremonies. I have been present when Soldiers have died as a result of being shot.
Wars continue. Russia invaded Ukraine over seven months ago. Perhaps tens of thousands have died, to include many civilians. There is now even talk of nuclear bombs. How could that impact us?
Why is there war? In the words of the Psalmist, “Why do the nations rage?”
The next part of the verse gives more insight by adding “and the peoples plot in vain” to the why question. That seems to indicate that when it is all said and done that much of the “rage” nations have simply doesn’t matter.
For my part, even with my relationship with Jesus, I still mess up. I still have personal frustration. Why do I do that? Well, I think it has a lot to do with my not being able to control my own circumstances. Even yesterday, I was reacting to stuff when things weren’t going the way I wanted.
When that happens to me, I realize that there are still many opportunities in my life to grow in my relationship with Jesus. When I look back on my own “rage” I see that it is usually vanity, my own self, that is the root cause.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, as I reflect on the times I have messed up, I am amazed that Your love for me is constant. Your forgiveness cleanses me. I can start anew with continuing to learn to let go and let You be in charge.
